The Future of Nuclear Power and Nuclear Weapons

In Megawatts and Megatons, world-renowned physicists Richard L. Garwin and Georges Charpak offer an accessible, eminently well-informed primer on two of the most important issues of our time: nuclear weapons and nuclear power. They begin by explaining clearly and concisely how nuclear fission and fusion work in both warheads and reactors, and how they can impact human health. Making a strong and eloquent argument in favor of arms control, Garwin and Charpak outline specific strategies for achieving this goal worldwide. But they also demonstrate how nuclear power can provide an assured, economically feasible, and environmentally responsible source of energy—in a way that avoids the hazards of weapons proliferation. Numerous figures enliven the text, including cartoons by Sempé.

AcknowledgmentsAn Optional Review of Units and DimensionsIntroductionA Fable for Young Readers (and whimsical elders)1. All Energy Stems from the Same Source2. The Nuclear Chain Reaction3. Nuclear Weapons4. Natural Radiation and Living Things5. The Civilian Use of Nuclear Energy6. A Glimpse of the Future of Nuclear Power7. Safety, Nuclear Accidents, and Industrial Hazards8. Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions9. Comparing Hazards of Nuclear Power and Other Energy10. Making Best Use of Scientists11. From Arms Race to Arms Control12. Current Nuclear Threats to Security13. Can We Red the World of Nuclear Weapons?14. A Turning Point in the Nuclear Age?NotesFor Further ReadingIndex

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